The Mitchell Collection is one of the largest and most diverse literature collections in Cushing.  While its core remains English writers between the World Wars, its material extends to book history and publishing, illustration, and a large grouping of books about boxing.  Highlights include the published work and inscribed copies or manuscript material from Katherine Mansfield, Sylvia Townsend Warner, Edward Thomas, and many other writers.  In addition to these authors, the collection contains extensive material from two literary dynasties -- the Powys and Garnett families.

Sample highlights of the collection:

Cruikshank, Isaac Robert.  Going to a Fight.  London: Sherwood, Neely & Jones.  This engraved and hand-colored scroll measures 2 1/4 inches in height and over 12 feet in length, and is housed in a turned boxwood case.  The image depicts Londoners of all classes working their way to a boxing match.

Warner, Sylvia Townsend. Elinor Barley.  London: Cresset Press, 1930.  This beautiful production is one of thirty deluxe copies on handmade paper of a total edition of 380.  The drypoint illustrations, including one reproduced on the vellum cover, is duplicated in a portfolio of prints signed by the author.

 

Associated websites:

Transatlantic Twins

online exhibit.